Ransomed Ones

Bubba is now Breckin!

2010-09-28T22:03:00.000-05:00

For the longest time Breckin was not able to pronounce his name, so he called himself Bubba. Just a couple of days ago we were teaching him how to spell his name with him, now he's a nearly a pro at spelling it. Here is a clip of him spelling with Mommy.

Who has higher hops? Breckin or Daddy?

2010-06-20T22:44:00.000-05:00

Who needs a cat?

2010-06-12T22:35:00.002-05:00

Breckin had fun playing with the flash light tonight. Daddy had fun treating Breckin like a cat tonight.

Future Black Mail Material

2010-06-12T19:52:00.000-05:00

Just a little bit of future black mail material against Breckin.

Catching Up....

2010-05-20T22:25:00.000-05:00

Oh, what a bad blogger am I - it's been over way too long since I've posted anything! I'm going to do my best to fill in the important details of what has happened since I posted last and then get on to what you all really want, pictures of Breckin.

God is so good. Now, this isn't news to any of you but I'm still really excited about the ways He has blessed us lately. As of mid-February, I am no longer a full-time working mom. I am now a part-time working mom. God has provided a new job for me, working 3 days a week that pays almost as much as I was making working 5 days a week. How cool is that?!?! So now Breckin and I get extra time together to do mundane stuff like cleaning and grocery shopping as well as fun stuff like playing at the park, going to have lunch with Daddy at his work, and playing in the pool.

Our house has been (and will continue to be) grand central station. We've enjoyed visits from my Aunt Carel and Uncle Dave, my sister Heather and brother Brad, my mom and Will's sister and brother-in-law. His parents are coming to visit. Breckin has really enjoyed having all sorts of different people to dote on him.

As for our little man - he is growing by leaps and bounds! His personality is developing more and more as we move towards the 2 year old mark. He has distinct ideas of what he wants and more often what he doesn't want. His favorite sayings are "no Mama" and "miiiiiiiiine". He absolutley loves to play outside - getting dirty, pulling weeds like Daddy and torturing the dog by hiding her ball in places she can't get to it. If he hears a bird or an airplane while outside, he'll stop what he's doing look to the sky and point while saying "tweet tweet" or "airpea" accordingly. His love affair with Elmo continues, but he has added the movie Cars to his list of favorites now too (we have watched that movie so many times that Mommy, Daddy and Breckin alike can quote large portions of it). Breckin loves making people laugh and will do so by showing you his muscles (while growling, of course), winking both eyes at you or walking around the house with a bucket on his head. I could go on and on about all the little things that make my kiddo so special, but I have a feeling you will all quit reading and scroll down to the pictures anyhow.

Martin Christmas

2010-01-16T10:49:00.008-06:00

After spending three and and a half days with the Lasher family we headed east to hang out with the Martin side of the family. Breckin was the center of the universe while we were there as Nan and Pap took their turn to spoil him. Will and I realized exactly how deconditioned we were for the cold when we went to see the Christmas lights at Rocky Ridge. Fifteen degrees with a windchill in the single digits is COLD I don't care who you are!

Playing in shaving cream with Nan
My little angel

Breckin and Pap playing their favorite game -nose honking!

Decorating Uncle Brad

My favorite gift!

Intense concentration

This is why I love Christmas morning

Meeting the Big Guy

Oooooh! Cold!

Lasher Christmas

2010-01-16T10:03:00.007-06:00

The first leg of our Christmas travels started out in Indianapolis with Grandma and Grandpa Lasher, as well as the rest of the Lasher family. We got to spend lots of time with family and got to go to Christmas at the zoo - a fun and chilly evening!

Happy to be at Grandma and Grandpa's

Playing with Grandma

Proof that Breckin is in love with Elmo

So many gifts to open!

Checking out some sort of rodent at the zoo

Hanging out with the cousins
Clapping for the Christmas carolers crazy enough to be out in the snow

Chistmas Tree Hunt 2009

2009-11-27T22:06:00.004-06:00

Since Will and I have been married, it's been our tradition to go hunt the perfect Christmas tree and cut it down ourselves. The past three years we've driven to the Wintergreen Tree Farm in Van Alstyne and had great luck finding just the right tree! This year we went hunting in jeans and T-shirts as it was 72 degrees - a little odd for these northerners. We made up for the lack of Christmas-like weather by listening to tons and tons of Christmas tunes - from White Christmas to Away in a Manger.

Handsome Little Man

2009-11-26T21:44:00.002-06:00

Ice, Ice Baby

2009-11-21T21:00:00.010-06:00

This weekend, while Will's parents were in town, we went to the Gaylord Texan to see their Ice exhibit. This year's theme happened to be The Grinch Who Stole Christmas - and it happened to be AMAZING! We were a little unsure how Breckin would do in the nine degrees inside this exhibit, since he is a native Texan. Apparently his parents' northern blood courses through his veins too, because he was too busy being awed by the colors and lights to care about the temperatures. Thank you Grandma and Grandpa Lasher for starting this Christmas season off with such a fun treat!

Halloween 2009

2009-11-01T06:56:00.001-06:00

Dinner Conversation

2009-10-14T21:07:00.002-05:00

The Wiggly Play Center

2009-10-04T13:53:00.004-05:00

Since yesterday's plans to go to the State Fair got rained out, we decided to treat Breckin to an afternoon at the Wiggly Play Center, an indoor Wiggles-themed playground. Mommy and Daddy's ears were bleeding by the time we were done, but Breckin had a great time.

Vacation 2009 - Ocean City, New Jersey

2009-10-04T13:30:00.005-05:00

Praying for Boston

2009-09-18T12:27:00.003-05:00

This blog is to request that all of our friends and family join in a prayer chain for Boston Clark. Boston's parent's, Kelly and Charlie, are friends of ours who live in Angola, Indiana who were mentors and friends of mine (Will) while I was in college.

Boston was born last Saturday at 30 weeks, weighing 2lbs 3 ounces. This is an excerpt from Kelly's blog. "I had my 30 week appointment yesterday and ended up in the hospital. My OBGYN and also a prenatal - neonatal specialist did not like the look of the untra sound, mainly the blood flow through the umblical cord and he is measuring 3 weeks small which of course is cause for concern. Had a steroid shot to help develop the babys lungs as well. We were both hooked up to monitors and hanging in there." They ended up delivering Boston via c-section due to the lack of blood he was receiving.

Boston will be in the NICU for quite a while. Please pray for Boston that God will continue to strengthen him and allow to go to home as soon as possible. Also pray for Charlie and Kelly that they will have the strength to endure this tough time.

You can follow Boston's progress on his blog http://www.bostonclarkbutler.blogspot.com/.

Catch the early parts of Boston's life story on his sister's blog http://www.brooklynbutler.blogspot.com/

Family Pics

2009-09-05T09:55:00.003-05:00

I know that some of you have seen these pictures several times before, but for those of you who haven't seen them yet, please enjoy! A wonderful friend and talented photographer took these and we love them!

Day at the Park

2009-09-05T09:16:00.002-05:00

Last Saturday we had a little bit milder weather (for those of you up north, read low 90's) so we decided to take Breckin over to the park. He was quite interested in all the other kids there and the woodchips on the ground, the play equipment - he could take it or leave it!

Breckin gets "into" breakfast

2009-08-23T20:37:00.001-05:00

Nothing beats a lazy sunday morning breakfast of cinnamon buns and bananas.

First Haircut and New Shoes

2009-08-16T08:08:00.005-05:00

We've been talking about how shaggy Breckin's hair has been looking for about 8 weeks now - so we finally bit the bullet and took him for his first hair cut. It was supposed to just be a trim, to clean him up a little bit, but when you don't start out with a lot of hair, a little trim goes a long way. Of course in true mommy fashion, I got a little misty eyed during the hair cut (no sobbing though!). After his haircut, we went on a hunt to find Breckin some new shoes - easier said than done. His feet are nearly as wide as they are long - but after much searching we found him two pairs. Since he carried them around through the store and all last night when we got home, I feel pretty confident that he likes them!

Birthday Fun Continued

2009-08-04T21:40:00.007-05:00

Breckin got his first taste of cake and icing on his birthday a couple of weeks ago. Here is video of him enjoying his Birthday Cupcake and dunking on his new basketball hoop.

Birthday Part 2

2009-08-01T11:53:00.005-05:00

Birthday Part 1

2009-07-26T15:44:00.003-05:00

We are winding down a week of birthday celebrations. We've skyped with both sets of grandparents and opened lots of presents, had cake - twice and a birthday party with some close friends. I can't believe my baby is one already!

Happy Birthday Breckin

2009-07-22T06:20:00.008-05:00

It doesn't seem like just a year ago you joined Mommy and Daddy on the outside world Buddy. God has been so gracious to us by blessing our lives with you and entrusting your life to us. You are such a joy to us, always making us laugh and smile. We look forward to watching your grow and helping to learn about God and the world. Happy Birthday Buddy. We love you.

Five hours old in the NICU.....of course he would have to have low sugars and not want to breathe.

Four days old....how great of a feeling it was to bring him home that day.

One year old...where has the time gone?

Almost one and walking

2009-07-11T15:11:00.002-05:00

Just within the last week Breckin has really started to walk. He started with just a couple of steps and a lunge to get him to where he was going. Now, he's making it all the way across the living room.

Pool Time

2009-07-11T15:04:00.002-05:00

We bought Breckin an inflatable pool that he can enjoy (Mom and Dad can too). Today he started dipping his face into the water and laughing.

The Chasing Begins

2009-06-23T20:22:00.004-05:00

For the last three months we have had our living room setup to contain Breckin. Pillows blocked one opening and the ottoman blocked the other. However, tonight Breckin learned how to climb onto the ottoman to escape. I guess the never ending chasing has begun.

How Breckin does Morning

2009-06-21T22:09:00.003-05:00

Last Thursday night was a little rough for our family. Breckin woke up at 1am, 2am, 3am, 4am and 5am - at which point he landed in bed with mom and dad. Of course when the alarm went off at 6am, no one wanted to wake up. Breckin takes after his mom more than his dad when it comes to mornings - he prefers to start them when he is ready!

New Toy

2009-06-16T21:35:00.005-05:00

Mommy and Daddy ordered a comforter online and when it came Breckin got a new toy too!

Summertime is Here!

2009-06-14T20:34:00.006-05:00

This weekend we went to the pool with our good friends, the Parkers. They have two kids: Aiden, who is four and has passed lots of great clothes to Breckin, and Aubrey, who is almost seven months old - I think Breckin may have a crush, I caught him trying to hold her hand at church one day! Breckin is definately warming up to the water, or the water is warming up and he's enjoying it more.....

Ahhhh......This is the life!
My buddy

Just Chillin

A little water in the face doesn't phase him

Breckin playing shy with Aubrey

First Rangers Game

2009-05-25T18:29:00.004-05:00

We took Breckin to his first Major League Baseball game today. He wanted it to be the Cubs, but they weren't coming to Texas so he settled for the Rangers. It was a great day, mid-80s and sunny. He wasn't too excited about it all until he got his own seat, then he was having fun.

Breckin wasn't quite awake all the way.

I like having my own seat. Baseball is pretty fun to watch.

It's going, going, it's gone! Too bad that home run was nine innings too late and 11 too few.

My Handsome Boy

2009-05-12T21:20:00.001-05:00

First Time at the Pool

2009-05-12T20:57:00.005-05:00

First impressions were not good!

Thinking about another try.....

Well, maybe if Mommy holds me.....
Hey! This place isn't so bad!

From crawling to standing

2009-04-30T20:26:00.004-05:00

Just yesterday Breckin was crawling around the house. Today we get home, put him in the pack-n-play and he's pulling himself up to stand. While we were eating dinner he was on the floor playing, crawled over to the ottoman, and pulled himself up again. We were both surprised and excited so we had to get the camera out to get some footage. Enjoy!

Clapping and Crawling

2009-04-14T20:04:00.006-05:00

Breckin has just recently started clapping.

And now he is mobile too. He likes to go anywhere we aren't blocking.

Easter 2009

2009-04-12T19:16:00.005-05:00

He's on the move

2009-03-16T21:07:00.003-05:00

Breckin has recently started to really get around the house. He hasn't quite gotten down the skill of moving knees and hands together, so he's resorted to being an inch worm for now.

Tonight he mastered the skill of pulling himself up to the ottoman. No longer can we use it to keep the expensive toys, the laptop, camera, and video camera, away from Breckin.

Mi Amore

2009-03-13T21:48:00.000-05:00

Breckin VS. The Puffs

2009-03-13T21:22:00.003-05:00

For several weeks now, we have been giving Breckin puffs to work on his pincer grasp. He's not really mastered that task..... the puffs get pushed off the highchair, stuck to his hands (where he forgets about them) or fall into the pocket on his bib. Well, this past week Breckin had a milestone - he figured out how to get the puffs in his mouth short of lowering his face to the tray and lapping them up. He used every square inch of his hands and some of his arms to get them to his mouth; but he didn't care, he was loving their sweet potato goodness!

My little Monkey

2009-03-05T19:27:00.002-06:00

What new toy can I find?

2009-03-05T18:41:00.003-06:00

Allison warned me that he would come after the shoes - I didn't believe her. I mean, they stink - why would anyone want to put their face near them, let alone chew on them! Now that Breckin is mobile he gets into the weirdest stuff: the fireplace, magazines, flower arrangements. Just when I think we've got the place baby proofed Breckin finds more stuff to get into!

I [heart] him.

2009-02-26T22:28:00.002-06:00

Nap Time????

2009-02-26T22:11:00.004-06:00

Now that I've been at my job for two years, I get every Wednesday afternoon off -- LOVE IT!! Date day with my little man is a great way to break up my week. This week, after our date at the grocery (he's pretty easy to please) it was a nap time. I had high hopes that if I could get him down, put the groceries away, fold one load of laundry and start another, I might be able to catch a quick power nap myself. No such luck. After ten minutes rocking, and 15 minutes of the Little Einstein aquarium to soothe him, I found him on his knees trying to untie the bumpers and let the fishes out of the aquarium. I guess he was too excited about his afternoon with mom to waste time sleeping!

Why buy toys?

2009-02-22T19:59:00.004-06:00

I'm beginning to wonder why we bother to buy toys. Breckin seems to like the clothes basket.

New Favorites...

2009-02-18T21:30:00.002-06:00

February Fun

2009-02-18T19:27:00.006-06:00

We have been lucky to have some really mild weather lately, which has allowed us to spend some time outside. Breckin really seems to love the swings at the park, but they really tire him out!

Almost crawling!!!

2009-02-11T20:15:00.000-06:00

Brooke and I were laying on the floor tonight watchin tv and playing with Breckin. All of a sudden we look over and Breckin was up on his hands and knees all by himself. The rest of the night he would get up on on all fours, rock, and fall down. Watch out world - here he comes!

Sweet Potato Puffs.....Yum

2009-02-11T19:52:00.005-06:00

Breckin really likes his Puffs, but he hasn't quite figured out how to get them into his mouth yet. Oh well, he will soon enough.

For those of you who need a Breckin fix.....

2009-02-10T18:15:00.003-06:00

I Love Jesus but I Drink a Little

2009-02-05T19:39:00.008-06:00

Six Months?!?! Already?!?!

2009-01-29T19:27:00.003-06:00

It's hard to believe that our little man is half a year old already, the days have flown by. He is such a joy to Will and I. Breckin is such a little ham - he loves making us laugh; which he does daily either by his open-mouth slobbery kisses, his infectious giggles or blowing raspberries while his mouth is full of peaches!

Little B is all boy - he gets a kick out of farts, stares at the TV during football games and doesn't mind the dog licking his face. He's a great eater, a great sleeper and a really easy going kid. He's got his two bottom teeth, sits up on his own and can't wait until he's mobile! In a matter of weeks we are going to have some serious baby-proofing to do.

This little boy is the light of our lives, it's hard to remember our lives without him. Breckin, I hope you know how much Mommy and Daddy love you!

Would you look at those baby blues....

2009-01-08T13:13:00.002-06:00

Christmas in pictures

2009-01-05T20:59:00.004-06:00

Aunt Heather, Mommy's sister, always make me smile and I think I always make her smile too.

This was my first time to meet Aunt Lisa, Daddy's sister-in-law.

These are my cousin's Robbie and Lizzie. They made me laugh quite a bit.

Robbie and Lizzie got me Monkey B. I can't wait for him to get back to me in Texas!!!

Daddy, Me and Grandpa

This is all my Christmas Loot at Grandma and Grandpa Lasher's.

Yay, I finally made it to see Nan and Pap.

I get another stocking? This is fun!!

I think this 12 month shirt will fit me now Mommy.

This must a really cool toy. This is my third one!

Nanny (Mommy's Grandma) Mommy, Me and Nan

The Reason for the Season.....

2008-12-19T21:40:00.006-06:00

What a busy time of year! Between parties and eating and family and gifts and eating and decorating and eating - sometimes it's easy to forget why everyone gets so crazy. Some 2000 years ago our Father sent His Son to earth as a baby - no wonder we celebrate!

Thank you Aunt Carel for the yearly addition to our Willow Tree nativity scene. We look forward to adding to it each year and look forward to the future when we get to unpack these figurines yearly and talk to Breckin about the significance of each.

Breckin wishes you all a Merry Christmas. May you all have a wonderful time with family and loved ones while remembering "the reason for the season".

For Aunt Heather

2008-12-18T06:27:00.004-06:00

I hope you're not too bored at work today Aunt Heather. You can watch me grab Daddy's face, poke his eyes, and pick his nose. I can't wait to see you on Sunday. I love you.

~Breckin

Play Time

2008-12-13T18:35:00.003-06:00

Breckin has really been enjoying his exersaucer a lot more lately. He's learning how to use his hands to hold things and to entertain himself. Here's some video of him having fun.

My little boy is getting so big!

2008-12-09T22:03:00.003-06:00

Over the last couple weeks Breckin has really become interested in his toys. He has really started to realize that he has control over his hands and can make them do what he wants! He had his four month visit to the pediatrician last week and did so well - I was proud. He got three shots and was done crying by the time I could pick him up. He continues to grow like a weed: 18 lbs 9 oz and 28 1/2 inches long. That explains why we have to buy him new clothes every other week!

It's Beginning to Look a lot Like Christmas

2008-12-07T18:19:00.006-06:00

Working on holiday cuteness.....

In Search of the perfect Christmas tree

Daddy, cutting it down

Isn't it a good one?

Breckin approves

New digs from Nan and Pap

Meeting the big guy himself

Our Little Davy Crockett

2008-11-28T13:06:00.007-06:00

We decided Thanksgiving Weekend would be a perfect time to take our first Texas road trip with Breckin and our first vacation since our honeymoon. We made the five hour trek to San Antonio in about six hours; not bad considering we were traveling with a baby and had stop and go traffic for 30 miles. We were even surprised the Crowne Plaza could put on a pretty good Thanksgiving feast, not quite mom's but it worked.

Today we hiked along the Riverwalk until we got tired of carrying Breckin and the stroller up and down stairs. We made our way over to the Alamo and had to find that perfect Davy Crockett hat.

Isn't our Davy so cute?

Family picture at the Alamo

The Christmas Tree at Alamo Square

Gratuitious Cute Pictures

2008-11-19T20:38:00.002-06:00

Breckin's BFFs

2008-11-19T20:22:00.002-06:00

Good friends of ours, Gabe and Monica, had a little boy, Deacon, 3 months before Breckin was born. So we determined that Breckin and Deacon would be best friends. Gabe and Monica also have a 2 year old little girl, Lily - she may be the future Mrs. Breckin Lasher - who knows?!?!

And of course every little boy needs a K9 best friend and it looks like these two are well on their way to a life long friendship.

A True Texan

2008-11-19T20:16:00.002-06:00

Breckin has chosen sides. Thanks to a little influencing from mommy's friend from work, Miss Andi, Breckin has become a lil' Longhorn.

He's pretty excited about it.

I'm going to have to get tougher...

2008-11-06T19:55:00.002-06:00

I'm not sure when it's going to happen, but it has to. I'm going to have to toughen up, because right now I can't imagining saying no to this face.

It's Official.

2008-11-01T21:43:00.005-05:00

Breckin sleeps through the night. It's been happening for a little over a week now, but I was hesitant to announce it for fear I'd jinx us. But six out of the last seven nights Breckin has slept for eight or more hours. It's amazing!
Since we don't take many pictures of Breckin sleeping (we're nervous the flash would wake him up) here are a couple pictures of Breckin playing hard - which I'm sure contributes to his exaustion. That and the rice cereal!

Breckin has found his hands

2008-11-01T21:34:00.002-05:00

Or he found his mouth. Depends on how you look at it. Every time I turn around he's got some combination of fingers, fist or fists in his mouth. He's a drippy drooly mess and I think it's adorable!

The Many Faces of Breckin

2008-10-28T22:08:00.003-05:00

As Breckin gets older, it's so much fun to watch his personality develop. He comes up with new faces to make every day, thoroughly entertaining his mommy and daddy. Just take a look at the expressions on our little character!

*For the grandparents: there are many more pictures posted for your viewing and bragging pleasure at walmart.com

Can you believe he's only 3 months old?!

2008-10-25T18:18:00.007-05:00

Breckin had a big day today - a new exersaucer and his first taste of rice cereal. He seems to love both!

Exercise Time!

2008-10-25T09:28:00.006-05:00

Mommy and Daddy have been working with me to strengthen my neck and back. Watch me do my exercises by sitting in my Bumbo and doing some tummy time.

I'm the cutest boy in the whole world!

2008-10-21T21:54:00.001-05:00

Thanks Aunt Heather!

2008-10-21T21:35:00.003-05:00

This Saturday Breckin got a special package in the mail, an Indianapolis Colts sweatsuit from Aunt Heather! Both Daddy and Breckin were very excited.

The Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-21T21:28:00.003-05:00

This past Saturday our life group made the trek up to Celina, Texas to go to what must be, based on the crowds, the only pumpkin patch in north Texas. Breckin wasn't overly impressed with the farm animals, the hay rides or the pumpkins. He was impressed with Miss Angela crawling on the ground at 9 months pregnant to get some great pictures of him!

Afternoon with Daddy

2008-10-17T16:24:00.003-05:00

Breckin and I got to spend some time together yesterday before Brooke got home. Here is some fun video of him playing with and talking to his animals!

Some pictures I love

2008-10-15T20:52:00.001-05:00

Happy Boy

2008-10-15T20:32:00.005-05:00

To all of you who have been anxiously checking our blog for updates - sorry it has been so long! In the time since I've blogged last, we have turned a huge corner. Many of you know Breckin was struggling with his tummy. Starting around 6 weeks Breckin started fussing with nearly every feeding. After seeing the pediatrician, he was started on Prevacid with a diagnosis of acid reflux. After two weeks with no change, we went back where I informed her that his pooping habits had drastically changed - from 2-3 poops a day to 1 poop every 2-3 days. She said that this is not uncommon for babies and suggested we see a pediatric gastroenterologist. The specialist agreed with our pediatrician that it was indeed reflux and we should increase his Prevacid to three times a day.
Our babysitter, Kelly, with no medical degree but over ten years baby experience said she never knew a happy baby (especially the boys) who didn't poop every day. After 2 ounces of prune juice and a major colon cleanse, my boy is happy again! It is amazing what regular pooping will do for a baby's disposition! Thank you Kelly for convincing me that prune juice does indeed work wonders!
And now for some proof that our boy is much happier......

Bath Time

2008-09-28T20:23:00.005-05:00

Our nightly bedtime ritual has grown to include bath time - not because Breckin really gets that dirty (although the rolls around his neck do collect some funk!) but because supposedly it helps to distinguish night time sleep from nap sleep. It must be working pretty well because we're slowly getting a little bit more sleep at night. We have gotten almost 5 1/2 hours at a stretch - not every night but even once in a while is an amazing feeling!

Breckin really enjoys bath time. He smiles and kicks his legs and flails his arms splashing mom and dad. He doesn't even fuss when his rookie parents get water in his eyes! But, he's not really a fan of getting out of the bath tub. Most evenings mom and dad frantically try to distract and entertain during the drying, diapering, lotioning and pajama-putting-on process so Breckin forgets he just got out of the tub.

Ooooohhh, this feels great!

Which way to the gun show?

Extras from Sunday morning.........

My Boy... and me!

2008-09-23T19:49:00.003-05:00

Fun Videos

2008-09-13T21:43:00.006-05:00

Nanny, Brooke's grandma, had a great time playing with Breckin over Labor Day Weekend. Just seeing Nanny so happy with Breckin was worth every bit of the trip to Pennsylvania.

Breckin talking to his animals and saying, "Go Cubs Go." He was a little frustrated that Ike kept them from playing today.

Happy Anniversary Brooke

2008-09-09T21:17:00.004-05:00

Two years ago today Brooke's dad entrusted her life to me. I promised to him, to her and to God to love her through sickness and health, good times and bad. Loving her has been one of the easiest things I have ever done. Being the husband of the best woman is a great honor and pleasure.

Brooke and I have been through so many changes over the last two years...moving to Dallas, a new job for her, two new jobs for me, each of us growing stronger in our Christian walk, and the birth of a handsome boy, Breckin. Seeing her with Breckin and all the sacrifices she makes and all she does for our family makes me fall more in love with her everyday. While it's only been two short years that we've been married, some times I think it was just yesterday, I look forward to many more years of waking up next to her, being a parent with her, and growing closer to God with her.

Brooke it is my promise to you that I’ll be your hero, I’ll be the guard of your honor somehow and I’ll show you love laid down. (See the song lyrics here)

Brooke got a great anniversary gift today, but it wasn't from me. While playing with Breckin tonight he was giving her some big smiles. Here is video of Breckin smiling. Brooke sounds and looks a bit silly, but come on, who doesn't when trying to get their baby to smile?

Bonus Picture.....

2008-09-04T18:10:00.000-05:00

Who's teaching him this?!?!?

2008-09-04T17:54:00.004-05:00

Breckin's First Trip

2008-09-04T17:27:00.004-05:00

This weekend Breckin made his first big trip to Pennsylvania to meet his great-grandmother and great-grandfather, Nanny and Pop-pop. We were apprehensive about flying with a 6 week old, but the flying part wasn't the tough part it was the adjustment to new surroundings, a different schedule and TONS of new people.

I'm so greatful that Breckin had this opportunity to meet Nanny and Pop-pop - seeing the smile on Nanny's face when she was holding him was worth every penny we spent on airfare! Of course it was great to see lots of other family and friends also.

Sleeping on the plane with Mommy - thank you God!

Pap using his special touch to calm down Breckin

Exercising with Aunt Heather

Hanging with Pop-pop

I don't know who is happier, Nanny or Breckin!

Four Generations

Napping with Aunt Sommer

Maya and Jackson

2008-08-26T19:17:00.005-05:00

Maya loves her neighbor Jackson. Anytime she has the opportunity to play with Jackson she loves it, even if it is playing through the one missing slat in the fence. When ever she notices Jackson is in his yard she'll stand still for a second the take off in a dead sprint to meet him at the fence. Tina, Jackson's owner, often refers to Maya as Jackson's girlfriend. If that is the case, I'm not sure I approve of the sleep-over they are goin to have this weekend. Here are some clips of them playing between the fence today.

You don't want me to take this thing out!

2008-08-23T22:55:00.000-05:00

Holla!

2008-08-23T22:52:00.003-05:00

10 things we never knew before becoming parents

2008-08-23T22:10:00.006-05:00

The cutest expressions often come from the passing of gas.
Someone THIS small can eat THAT much.
Being puked on, peed on, pooped on, and burped on aren't so disgusting from your baby.
Someone so cute can be so frustrating as well.
It would take all of our energy to care for someone who sleeps 18 hours a day.
The best way to meet neighbors and strangers is to have a baby with you.
You have to pack the nursery in a bag to go out for a couple hours.
The astounding number of things you can do with one hand while holding a baby in the other.
Someone can wake you from a dead sleep at 3:00 in the morning, keep you up for two hours and still make you smile.
That our parents love us this much!

Visitors Welcome

2008-08-19T09:23:00.003-05:00

If you are in the area between the hours of 2:30 and 5:30 AM, feel free to stop by - we'll be up! Our sweet little angel has his days and nights very confused. After waking up to eat, he decides the middle of the night would be a great time to hang out with mom and dad. It could be worse, he could be screaming the whole time, which he doesn't, unless we try to put him down. We even get a few accidental smiles out of him during this time, unfortunately he doesn't get many in return from his exhausted mommy and daddy. It seems like we've tried everything to help "unconfuse" him; keeping him awake more during the day, keeping it dark and quiet at night, white noise, even the vacuum. Much of what I read says this is very normal at his age and he'll out grow it, but in the meantime, if you're up in the middle of the night, looking for something to do, stop on by - we'll be up!

Just because he is so cute!

2008-08-17T21:21:00.005-05:00

I just happened to have the camera in hand and caught this pic.

He gets his good looks from his dad.

Ok, who am I kidding? He gets his good looks from his mom.

This picture was not taken between 2:30 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. Those are the times he likes to be awake.....errrrrr!

Daily Dose of Cuteness....

2008-08-09T21:51:00.005-05:00

Baby = Hard Work

2008-08-03T22:28:00.004-05:00

Wake, poop, cry, eat, poop, cry, sleep, poop, cry, eat, poop, cry, sleep, poop, cry....that is pretty much the never ending cycle at the Lasher house right now. And yes, he does cry that much. Breckin absolutely hates having his diaper changed. We just put him down on the changing pad and he cries. That alone gets tiring. Who knew that feeding and chaing a baby would be so tiring?

The sleep deprivation has hit!

Who knew it could be so tough for Nan and Puppy?

Hmmm, what should I do while everyone sleeps? Poop? Cry? Sleep?

Wii Fun

2008-08-02T19:24:00.004-05:00

Some good humor watching Brooke's sister get beat at Wii Tennis by their mom.

Breckin meet Maya

2008-07-29T22:24:00.003-05:00

After many months of hearing about Breckin, Maya finally got to see who this person is that we kept mentioning. She already knew where his room was and could lead anyone there if they asked her. Maya is doing great with him. She even welcomed him home with a big lick to his head. Overall she pretty much ignores him. Here are some fun pics.

We're home!!!!

2008-07-26T13:01:00.004-05:00

Breckin is home!!!!!!!!! Brooke and I were waiting with anticipation all morning to get permission to leave the NICU. They decided since he has been eating more and hasn't had any more apneic episodes he could go home a day early. We owe a lot of thanks to Nurse Mandy who pushed the doctors to let him go!

Just before leaving the NICU. It was so good to hold him without wires connected.

Our little man ready for his first car ride on the outside world.

Mommy holding him in his nursery.

Breckin likes the boob

2008-07-26T00:30:00.003-05:00

Never before did I think I would be so excited to say that my son likes the boob. In a few years I'll be having to teach him that they are for married men only, but for now we'll let him like them. I guess he just decided that Brooke's milk was the best thing in the world. He ate for about 35 minutes, which is a huge improvement over his previous 25 minute record. And like the biggest baby in the NICU should, he ate another two ounces from the bottle. Breckin is finally eating like he is the biggest kid in the NICU (the other two are only half his size).

What makes things even better is that everyone here is pulling for Breckin, Brooke and me. Dr. Ehmer, Brooke's OB, contacted the Director of the Women's Services and got us a room for the night even though Brooke has been discharged. I guess that just goes to show how much of caring, Christian man he is.

That's not it though! One of Breckin's nurses, who has a crush on him, realized how much he doesn't belong here any longer and went to bat for him. After discussing with the pediatrician all of the improvements he has been making and not regressing, they decided he can go home on Saturday!!!!! We were super excited to hear that he gets to go home a day early. We can't wait to show the outside world to Breckin. Watch out world, here he comes!

Bad news and Good news

2008-07-24T19:05:00.004-05:00

The bad news is I won't be having my first beer in nine months tonight. The good news is I'm not having that beer because we are staying at the hospital tonight. Dr. Ehmer, our OB, is keeping Brooke another night. Not that they are concerned about anything, but the doctor wants to observe her for another night with her past blood clotting problems. This is welcomed because Breckin has to stay too.

Our doctor is also working on getting us a room to stay at the hospital on Friday and Saturday night since Breckin will still be in the NICU. Dr. Ehmer is such an amazing man, he has even offered to let us use his house, which is about 30 minutes closer to the hospital than our house. We have been so blessed to be connected with such great Christian people in Dallas. We give God the glory for all he has done for us down here.

Daddy's Pride and Joy

2008-07-24T13:13:00.004-05:00

Breckin continues to do well. He's been eating his required two ounces with each feeding, his sugar levels are staying high, and his temperature is staying down. Unfortunately, we just learned that on Tuesday he made a five day reservation in the NICU. While sleeping in his crib, he decided to stop breathing, turned blue, and needed oxygen. That earned him his five day stay. So now he won't be able to go home until Sunday. That is going to be difficult for Brooke and I since we are being discharged today. In our minds we know it is best for him to stay, but our hearts hate it.

It didn't take him long to fall asleep.

He was sound asleep!

Good progress!!!

2008-07-23T23:55:00.005-05:00

We just got done from giving Breckin his 11:00 p.m. feeding and he is showing good progress. They took him off of his sugar IV around 9:00 and his sugars stayed up! His sugar count was actually one of the highest of the day. He also ate 50 ccs of formula today, the most he has eaten since he has been here. Yes, it has been less than two days; however, he has had about 12 feedings. We're happy with this progress and just hope he continues to improve.

God has definitely been working with Breckin and getting him better. We know that our God is the almighty God and has the miraculous powers to get Breckin where he needs to be in order to go home. We thank Him for always being faithful to us, no matter the circumstances.

Crying Video - now works

Here is some more video of Breckin. Don't worry about the beeping in the background. The monitors that are on him are very sensitive, so sometimes when he squirms around in our arms it thinks the probes have become disconnected. We have learned when to worry and when not to worry. This time was a time not to worry.

Look at me smile!!!!

2008-07-23T22:24:00.002-05:00

So I was finally able to trim down some of the video and get this uploaded. Here is a quick 25 second clip. I'll work on getting more as I have more time.

2008-07-23T19:44:00.006-05:00

More photos. I'm trying to get some video loaded, but blogger is cooperating. I'll keep trying though.

Did she really just give birth 36 hours ago?

The biggest kid in the NICU, but not yet the best eater.

The look only a mother can give.

Breckin's improvement

2008-07-23T16:34:00.003-05:00

Thank you to everyone for your prayers and support over the last 36 hours. It's crazy to think that Breckin is just over a day and a half old. We feel like it has been several days. I guess that's what happens when you are sleep deprived and concerned about your new son. Your e-mails and comments of love, prayers and encouragement have been very appreciated. It helps us to keep going.

Breckin is making great progress today. Early today the nurses took the oxygen saturation monitor off of him, which means we aren't concerned about him holding his breath. He has made great improvements realizing he needs to breath in order to live.

He is also being weaned from his sugar IV. Last night he was at 18 ccs per hour. This morning he was at 10 ccs and it is lowered 2 ccs every three hours as long as his sugar levels are high enough. Right now he is down to 6 ccs. His blood draws came back negative, giving good indication that he doesn't have an infection. We're waiting on his blood cultures to come back tomorrow to confirm that.

We're hoping he will get to go home Friday or Saturday. Brooke and I are getting kicked out of the hospital tomorrow. I guess we could stay if we wanted to pay for it, but this is a pretty expensive hotel, so we'll go home. We just can't wait to have the little guy at home with us and Maya.

I'll post some video and pics a little later tonight. It's feeding time now.

Prayers for our family

2008-07-22T23:20:00.005-05:00

Life for Breckin continues to be stressful as he is still in the NICU. He's had a day of ups and downs and so have Mom and Dad. His sugar level has gone up, which is good, then down, then up, then down. Right now his sugars are up, but they also increased his Sugar IV as well. We hope it will continue to stay up and they can start to take him off of the IV in the next day or two.

His apneic epsiodes, (which is when he holds his breath), come and go. He seems to do it more when we are holding him, which makes it hard on us. The nurses tell us all babies do it, just not all babies are on monitors so that we know they do it. Nor is it as bad as his have been. It still is tough to hear this machine beeping at you, seeing the oxygen level drop, and not getting any relief. Finally he takes a breath and he starts to breath again. The good thing is that his heart rate is not dropping. We're not sure why he is doing it, but at this time it isn't a major concern. But to us, it is a big drain on emotions.

He has had a roller coaster of 30 hours or so, once you consider the contractions he was experiencing in utero. It has also been a roller coaster for us. We know that he has this whole life outside the uterus thing to figure out. We have to figure him out, and he'll be ok in several days. It's just hard not to be able to hold our son when we want. It aches to see other mom and dads walking their babies down the hall.

Brooke is doing ok for the most part. She is pretty sore from pushing out a 9 1/2 pound kid. He was coming out face up, which is opposite from what we like. That made the pushing harder. She pushed like a champ, but is in quite a bit of pain.

We ask for your prayers for Breckin that God will help to strengthen him and to protect him. For the doctors and nurses that they will have the knowledge to help Breckin get better. And for Brooke and I, that we will have patience and give our worries, concerns, and fears up to God.

More Pics

2008-07-22T16:37:00.005-05:00

Look at my muscles! I can flex already.

Dr. Ehmer is the best OB, doesn't hurt he is a strong Christian and not afraid to show it in his practice. Thanks for the recommendation Jason and Patti!

Mom and Breckin after first feeding from Mom!

Dad and Breckin ater first feeding!